Liquid crystal cell

Abstract

A refractive index changing cell comprising a first and second substrate (22, 24) and a refractive index changing material (16) between the first and second substrates wherein the refractive index changing material (16) creates a negative pressure in the space defined by the gap between substrates. Some embodiments the negative space is created by underfilling the refractive changing material so that it comprises between 87-97% of the space. The refractive index changing cell may further include spacers between the two substrates, sealant between opposing substrates defining the cell perimeter of the cell, tenting of the substrates between spacers, a further optical element, and the refractive index changing material being liquid crystal. The refractive index changing cell may also be a part of an assembly further comprising a lens, image generation device, waveguide, reflection reduction layer, protective layer, luminance adjustment component or a processor. The apparatus including the refractive index changing cell may also be an augmented, virtual or mixed reality device. Also disclosed is a method of manufacturing the refractive index changing cell. [Fig. 2(b)]